Updated June 19, 2026
This page provides various resources, both inside and outside of REC, for information on the upcoming 2026 NCE Reserved Band FM Translator Filing Window. This page will be updated as new resources are added, so please check back every so often.
REC handling of FM translator applications during the filing window
REC will be handling applications for participation in the upcoming NCE FM Translator filing window, expected for late 2026. There will be a limited number of spaces available for REC handling. REC will use a flat rate of $700 for the original Construction Permit application. Filing of the post-construction license to cover is not included in this price (in a departure from the way REC has handled previous filing windows). REC will handle license to cover applications post construction for $400 prior to filing. Modifications to pending applications where the window filing was handled by REC will be offered for $600. These rates do not apply to FM translators already authorized (including those from this window). Normal REC rate card charges would apply in those situations.
To start the process:
- Download this information packet
- Identify potential sites and then send an email to lpfm@recnet.com with the information requested.
Please allow sufficient time for us to check the availability (the process is much more complex than checking for LPFM availability). There is no charge for us to look. We will only provide basic information about availability in return until the flat rate fee is collected.
REC Networks Rate Card for 2026 NCE FM Translator Filing Window
REC articles
FCC on track for an NCE FM Translator filing window, likely in late 2026 (01/28/2026)
Our first article about this window which also explains the basics of FM translators, fill-in translators and the point system.
FCC adopts translator public notice. REC releases prequalification tool. (02/18/2026)
Our second article that journalizes the full Commission's adoption of the Public Notice to set the ground rules for the window and announces that comments will be accepted. Also, an introduction to the REC Reserved Band Prequalification Tool.
Understanding the limitations on FM translators for LPFM stations. (03/27/2026)
There are various LPFM specific rules that need to be followed for LPFM organizaitons that plan to obtain an FM translator licensed to the same organization.
Media Bureau adopts application cap and additional restrictions for the upcoming NCE FM translator filing window. (05/28/2026)
The FCC has upheld their proposal that LPFM licensees are limited to filing only two applications in the upcoming translator window. Rejected calls to change other translator and non-translator rules which further limit the availability of FM translators for LPFM stations. Imposed the REC proposed 4-year holding period on new reserved band FM translators before the translator can be assigned/transferred independently of the primary station that the translator is rebroadcasting.
Statement of REC Networks: Reserved band protection of TV Channel 6 (06/09/2026)
FCC staff has verified that any application for a new or modified facility operating on TV Channel 6, regardless of whether the TV facility is full or low power, does not need to be protected while the TV application remains pending.
Side Deck Presentation on the filing window from Michelle Bradley for the NFCB webinar
REC resources
NCE FM Reserved Band Translator Window Prequalification Tool
This tool is NOT a channel search that verifies availability. Instead, it is a tool that shows which channels are definitely not available due to being inside of the service contour of an existing facility and whether a second/third adjacent channel waiver will be required. It also looks to determine if a specific location is within the 47 dBu contour of a Channel 6 TV facility. Channels that show a positive result can then be further evaluated by a professional with the proper contour tools to determine actual availability and maximum ERP in all directions.
LPFM Translator Location Prequalification Tool
This tool allows the user to check a location for a proposed translator and performs a check to see, if at maximum allowed facilities if placing a translator there would comply with the FCC rule that requires the service contour of a proposed translator licensed to an LPFM station could have the possibilty of overlapping the service contour of the LPFM station [§73.860(b)(1)]. This tool does NOT look at other broadcast stations to protect. It is intended to eliminate potential locations where a translator would obviously not comply with the rule. This tool can be used for commonly owned translators, regardless of channel (e.g. not just the reserved band).
REC Height Above Average Terrain Tool
Uses terrain data provided by the FCC to determine the height above average terrain based on location and antenna radiation center height. This tool includes special functionality for non fill-in translators. You need to switch the "number of radials" from 8 to 12 in order to enable this functionality.
New FM translator stations in the reserved band
REC's fact sheet on the upcoming translator filing window.
Translator to LPFM interference handling
While this page is directed mainly to LPFM stations experiencing interference from a subsequently authorized FM translator, it does provide information on the §§ 74.1203/74.1204(f) interference remediation process.
FAQ: FM Translators in the Reserved Band
Frequently and potentially asked questions regarding FM translators and the upcoming filing window. This page is updated periodically as questions are received.
FCC documents
FCC Seeks Comment on NCE FM Translator Applications for 2026 Window (02/18/2026)
The FCC seeks comments on their proposal that filings in the 2026 Reserved Band Filing Window be limited to 10 applications per licensee (attributable interest) for full-service stations and 2 applications (4 Tribal) for LPFM applicants (as further restricted by §73.860(c)). The FCC also seeks comments on whether to limit participation in the window to be limited to only licensees and permittees of full-service NCE FM, full-service NCE AM and LPFM licensees and the translator's primary station must be one that is licensed/permitted to the same applicant.
FCC Adopts Restrictions for Upcoming NCE FM Translator Filing Window (05/28/2026)
This public notice adopts the FCC's proposed general application cap as well as a holding period for construction permits granted in the upcoming filing window.
Other resources
47 CFR Part 74 - Subpart L
FCC rules pertaining to FM translator and FM booster stations
47 CFR §73.7003 - Point system selection procedures
Explains the point system used for the selection of a tentative selectee in the FM translator filing window in the event of mutual exclusivity that cannot be resolved through settlement or engineering.
